Negombo

Negombo lies just a short drive from Bandaranaike International Airport, making it an ideal first or last night in Sri Lanka. Its long beach, colourful fishing fleet and historic Dutch canal offer a gentle introduction to island life after a long flight, and a far easier start than heading straight into Colombo traffic.

Early risers can visit the lively fish market, where the morning’s catch is sold at auction and fish are laid out to dry on the sand in the sun. Later, a boat trip on the lagoon and the old Hamilton Canal drifts past mangroves, fishing villages and waterbirds, while traditional outrigger canoes, known as oruwa, return to shore in the afternoon.

The town’s many churches, including St Mary’s with its painted ceiling, reflect a strong Catholic heritage that dates back to the colonial era, and the remains of a Dutch fort gateway still stand near the lagoon. Just south of the town, the wetlands of Muthurajawela are rich in birdlife and make a peaceful morning excursion.

In a private journey, Negombo is about rest and convenience. Arrive, sleep well, enjoy a swim and a seafood dinner by the beach, then set off refreshed towards Sigiriya, Kandy or the south coast. On the way home, it lets you relax right up to your flight.